Orbital Minotaur VI - Manual (Page 63)

Minotaur IV • V • VI User’s Guide Section 5.0 – Payload Interfaces
5.1.3. Payload Access Door
Orbital provides one 457 mm by 610 mm (18 in. by 24 in.) payload fairing access door to provide access
to the payload after fairing mate. The door can be positioned according to payload requirements within
the cylindrical section of the fairing, providing access to the payload without having to remove any portion
of the fairing or break electrical connections. If necessary, the fairing access door may be placed within
the lower conic section of the fairing, however the standard size is reduced to 356 mm by 559 mm (14 in.
by 22 in.). The specific location is defined and controlled in the payload ICD. See Figure 5.1.3-1 for
available Access Door locations. Additional access doors can readily be provided as an enhanced option
(see Section 8.4).
Figure 5.1.3-1. Available Fairing Access Door Locations
5.2. Payload Mechanical Interface and Separation System
Minotaur provides for a standard non-separating payload interface. Orbital will provide all flight hardware
and integration services necessary to attach non-separating and separating payloads to the Minotaur
launch vehicle. Payload ground handling equipment is typically the responsibility of the payload
contractor. All attachment hardware, whether Orbital or customer provided, must contain locking features
consisting of locking nuts, inserts or fasteners. Additional mechanical interface diameters and
configurations can readily be provided as an enhanced option.
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